To: Dr. Erika Paterson

From: Pooja Patel

Date: June 28, 2021

Subject: Revised Proposal for Implementing Access to Free Mental Exhaustion Resources at London Drugs Pharmacy, Vancouver BC

Audience

This proposal is intended to be presented to the executive team of the London Drugs Head Office. The members of this team have the authority to implement changes in departments of the company as needed. 

Introduction

Any individual experiencing long-term stress can develop mental exhaustion. Job insecurity, over-extended hours, insufficient appreciation, increased work demands, and inadequate staffing are all common causes of mental exhaustion resulting from a place of work. At the pharmacy department of London Drugs, especially during the Covid-19 pandemic, the number of incoming prescriptions has increased significantly and staff members have been involuntarily inclined to overwork themselves in order to ensure continued efficient workflow. The increase in drug shortages due to the pandemic has also resulted in patients behaving abusively towards pharmacy staff. 

Statement of Problem

With patient complaints spiking and a lack of appropriate staffing, pharmacy workers have been on the edge of burnout. Feelings of anxiety, stress, and frustration are excessively experienced by the workers. There are two major implications of this problem: first, mental exhaustion can lead to physical and emotional exhaustion which can further impair everyday life; second, burnout can result in negative patient outcomes, such as medical errors. 

Proposed Solution

One possible solution for those struggling with work-related stress and burnout is to provide access to free mental health therapy. By seeking counselling, workers will be able to reduce anxiety, strengthen self-esteem, and most importantly, develop strong coping mechanisms for stress. 

Scope

To assess the feasibility of the practicality of implementing mental exhaustion resources, I plan to pursue six areas of inquiry:

  1. How many hours do pharmacy workers work?
  2. How many patients does each worker interact with each shift?
  3. How many times a week do workers experience abusive behaviour from patients?
  4. How many times a week do workers observe (towards coworkers) abusive behaviour from patients?
  5. How energized do workers feel after a shift?
  6. How much sleep do workers get after a long shift?

Methods

My primary data sources will include interviews and/or anonymous surveys with pharmacy workers of London Drugs. A total of 15 participants will be included and the online survey will consist of 10 reflective questions. I will also utilize case studies and news articles reporting on healthcare-related burnout as secondary sources. This research conducted will help me assess how practical and applicable implementing free access to mental health resources will be. 

My Qualifications

I have been employed as a pharmacy assistant for the past 7 years (since 2014), where I have gained experience in assisting licensed pharmacists to prepare and dispense medications to patients. I continue to work regularly during the current pandemic and am aware of the consequences it has on the pharmacy workflow. My current position and familiarity with the situation give me the opportunity for an in-depth study. 

Conclusion

Evidently, action is needed to improve the mental health of pharmacy employees. They are being pressured to overwork and endure constant stress that can be damaging to their health in the long term. By addressing the six areas of inquiry, I can determine the suitability of implementing free access to therapy for pharmacy workers. With your approval, I will begin my research immediately.